How To Choose A Barcode Scanner?

Barcode scanners are light emitting devices that areBe aware that the scanning distance for both
used to read barcodes. Usually attached to aimage-based and laser barcode scanners have
computer or laptop via PS2 or RS-232, the dataalready improved dramatically over the years and I
collected is stored on a computer for processing orwouldn't be surprised if a barcode manufacturer claims
storage. It is now used in many different industriesan image-based scanner has a scanning distance of
such as retail or production.24 inches.
They have been on the market for many years nowHere are some questions you need to ask yourself
with new versions of barcode scanners availablebefore getting a barcode scanner. The size of
every year. The prices can vary from as low asscanner required? Type of environment the barcode
$50.00 to as high as several thousand dollars. So howscanner will be using (outdoors, shop, warehouse)?
do you pick a good barcode scanner?The scanning distance required? Are they to be used
To answer that question, it is important you knowhands free or hand-held? Your budget?
there are 2 major classes of barcode scanners,So my suggestion is if you need a barcode scanner
image-based and laser-based. Image-based barcodefor long range scanning, get a laser barcode scanner.
scanners use a camera usually embedded in aFor short range scanning, use an image-based
barcode scanner. The camera will capture the imagesbarcode scanner such as a CCD barcode scanner.
and then processed by complex image techniques toThe environment as I asked earlier also plays an
decode the barcodes. Laser-based barcode scannersimportant part. If the barcode scanner is being used
uses mirrors and lenses to read the barcodes.outdoors or in rugged environments where it is
Laser barcode scanners are usually more expensiveexpected to take a drop or knock or two, then it is
than image-based scanners. They have their own prosbest to get an image-based barcode scanner. If it
and cons. An image-based barcode scanner do notwere for example being used in a retail shop, then a
have internal movable parts therefore are morelaser barcode scanner would be the best choice.
resistant to drops or knocks than laser barcodeThere are such a wide variety of barcode scanners
scanners. Also, image-based barcode scanners haveavailable that I just can't explain completely in this
a shorter scanning distance (4 to 10 inches) comparedarticle. If you are in doubt, consult the barcode
to laser barcode scanners. On the other hand, lasermanufacturers such as symbol or metrologic who
scanners are more prone to wear and tear due tohave sales consultants who are able to do an analysis
their lenses. They not only have a longer scanningof the type of barcode scanners needed by your
distance (up to 24 inches) but also are able to scanbusiness.
from a wider angle from the barcode.